Irish Colcannon Recipe: A Comforting and Delicious Traditional Irish Dish

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Irish Colcannon Recipe: A Comforting and Delicious Traditional Irish Dish
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
45 mins
Total Time:
65mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on December 21, 2023

This easy Irish Colcannon recipe is a traditional Irish dish that combines mashed potatoes, cabbage, and onions. It is a comforting and delicious side dish that is perfect for St. Patrick's Day or any time you're craving a hearty meal. The creamy mashed potatoes are mixed with sautéed cabbage and onions, adding a touch of sweetness and a slight crunch. Serve it alongside your favorite main course to add a taste of Ireland to your meal.

Ingredients

  • 4 russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 small head cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over high heat and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
  2. In a separate pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the cabbage and onion and sauté until they are softened, about 5-8 minutes.
  3. Add the sautéed cabbage and onion mixture to the pot with the potatoes. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher until smooth and well combined.
  4. In a small saucepan, heat the milk and remaining butter over low heat until the butter is melted.
  5. Gradually add the warm milk and butter mixture to the mashed potatoes, stirring until creamy and well incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve the colcannon warm as a side dish alongside your favorite main course.

Interesting Facts

  • Colcannon is a traditional Irish dish that is often served on Halloween. It is believed that charms and coins were hidden in the colcannon and whoever found them would have good luck.
  • In Ireland, colcannon was also used as a fortunetelling tool. Various items such as a ring, a thimble, or a button would be hidden in the colcannon, and the person who found them would predict their future. For example, finding a ring meant marriage, while finding a thimble meant remaining single or becoming a seamstress.